GLENDALE — Fires were intentionally set inside two Wal-Mart stores late Thursday, Glendale fire investigators said.
Both stores were evacuated after the flames broke out, and six people were treated for smoke inhalation, with two taken to hospitals.
Fire officials said damage was estimated at $5 million, mostly from smoke and water.
One of the stores was to remain closed until Monday.
The first fire started about 10 p.m. in the rear of a Wal-Mart in southwestern Glendale and forced about 120 people to evacuate, Deputy Fire Chief Elio Pompa said.
A second fire broke out about an hour later at a Wal-Mart several miles northeast. It also began in the rear of the store and forced 75 people to evacuate.
Both fires were contained by the stores' sprinkler systems, but there was extensive smoke and water damage.
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Pompa announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible.
Investigators were looking into a number of motives, including the possibility the fires were set by a disgruntled former employee.
